Sunday Shuffling

Our first Sunday in Italy we had a pranzo magnifico (wonderful lunch). After 4 courses (anti-pasto, pasta, meat, and dessert) we had an espresso and went for a stroll in a park in the hills of Naples. We were delighted by the day and the brilliant sunlight.


This past Sunday in Cava we ate a delicious lunch at a charity event for La Nostra Famiglia and afterwards we went for a Sunday ‘Shuffle’ (it is called this because people shuffle their feet while walking at the slow pace). Ciro and his family guided us through the town center and the pedestrian way. The Senatore family is from here so they saw many friends and acquaintances. As we walked, observed the scene, and discussed the traditions with Laura (Ciro’s daughter) we were informed that the large lunch and stroll is customary for Sundays. The evening ‘shuffle’ is when everyone is out to see each other.

Everyone is nourished, the chores should be done, and the week has yet to begin again so it is an ideal time to stroll and converse. Of course in this process it is customary to stop for a slice of pizza and/or gelato. (There are many varieties of pizza, but the classic margarita stands strong; it is beautiful in its simplicity – tomato sauce, mozzarella di bufala, and basilica. For gelato my latest favorite is two scoops of fruiti di bosco and noce (fruit of the forest (berries) and nuts.) As night over took the sky, we made our way back to the hotel. We retired for the evening with an appreciation for city design that includes many gathering piazzas and time with family and friends.

Cultural Immersion

Each day we learn our Italian Lessons as we observe, absorb, and inquire:

• The best food is FRESH and SIMPLE. In Italy we have been eating produce that is in season, bread made that morning, cheese made within 2 days, and fresh herbs. We can name every ingredient on our plate and at times can see the field where it was produced.
• To cut the Italian way: fork in the left hand, cut one bite with the knife in the right hand, eat one bite, then repeat.
• Once you get used to eating dinner between 22:00 and midnight it seems early when someone suggests eating at 20:30.
• When driving: everyone has the right of way!
• Everyone drives a manual car and uses their bumpers
• When learning a language just try
• The key to the Mediterranean longevity is a combination of nourishment, less stress, and climate.
• ENJOY EACH MOMENT!

Joy di Vivere

While driving the hillsides of Naples and Pozzouli we were discussing daily habits - hours of work, meals, spending time with friends and family, etc. Our new Italian friend told us the best lesson he has learned to this day is "Joy di Vivere" (the joy of living). He worked in Tanzania and he was amazed by the sheer joy of living amidst such supposed poverty. The lack of material possessions and struggle to meet daily needs was everywhere, but the spirit was strong because of the relationships between people. There was a deep gratitude to wake up and simply be together.

As we our on a journey of making new friends and sharing of experiences, it seems apt to reflect on the 'Joy di Vivere.' It is a great saying, but it is even better to intuit and live these words. Each day we see, hear, and taste many amazing things, but it is a joy to do these things because of the people we are with amidst this journey.